Couple face eviction over psychic guinea pigs

A couple have been threatened with eviction for refusing to give up their 21 guinea pigs, which they say are psychic. A Clive and Rose Restall must either part company with the rodents or leave their home as they have been told the pets breach their tenancy agreement. But couple, from Plymouth, Devon, claim that their guinea pigs have been crucial to Clive, 57, getting through his cancer treatment and have special powers. They say the pets have helped members of the community with their personal problems and have even helped influence the future. But Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) have said the number of guinea pigs and rabbits that the Restalls are keeping is unreasonable, and issued a warning of eviction.



"Lots of people like to come and visit them," said Clive. "Some people like to come and speak to them about their problems. There was one lad who came in and asked the guinea pigs to help bring his father back from Afghanistan, and they did. And there is a young lady we know who is having trouble at home with her parents, but she comes in and talks to them. They're a means of communication. They listen to your problems and they help." Clive bought his first batch of guinea pigs as part of his rehabilitation after being diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2010. He has had regular hospital appointments at the nearby Derriford Hospital since then, and said he would become depressed if it wasn't for his pets.

"Because of the cancer, I haven't been able to work," he explained. "So I bought a few guinea pigs to keep me company at home and to talk to. They've helped me through my cancer, they've helped me cope. The local community love them just as much as I do. I sometimes loan them out to people if they need someone to talk to, too." Having refused to get rid of them, Clive and his gifted guinea pigs now face being evicted in the New Year. A spokesperson for PCH, however, insisted that eviction would only be enforced as a "last resort". Sue Shaw, director of homes, neighbourhoods and regeneration, said: "We know that pet ownership can be a rewarding experience, bringing companionship and social benefits to people.



"However, we also care about the welfare of any pets kept in our homes and residents are made aware of our pets policy when they sign their tenancy agreement. In this case, the number of animals in Mr Restall's home is beyond what is reasonable. We have agreed that Mr Restall can keep some of his guinea pigs, but needs to find new homes for the others and we've given him until mid-January to reduce the number. Keeping animals in a way which is not in line with our pets policy is a breach of tenancy, which could ultimately lead to legal action and a tenant losing their home. However, this is always a last resort and we've tried to create terms for Mr Restall to make this situation as manageable as possible. We'll continue to work with him and offer support."